The prosecution may still pursue criminal charges making it critical that While the roles, responsibilities, and philosophies of Adult Protective Services and law enforcement in conducting investigations are different, the two groups can be a complementary and valuable resource to one another. The Grand Jury subpoena will not contain the name of the suspect, to protect the suspect (whom the Grand Jury may decide not to charge) and/or to avoid any risk to victims or witnesses. Fear is a major reason and love is another, or perhaps a combination of both. APS receives and investigates complaints of abuse, and offers and provides services to prevent further abuse, including healthcare, housing, social, and legal services. Grand juries only decide if there is probable cause to believe the defendant committed a crime. The mere fact that this information is being provided on the website should not be taken as any indication or suggestion that a Grand Jury witness is under investigation or is likely to be charged with a crime. Investigative grand juries are almost always used in federal human trafficking cases. Federal, state and county prosecutors utilize grand juries to decide whether probable cause exists to support criminal charges. learn more, or However, such a defendant can seek permission from the Prosecutors office to do so. If you are testifying before the grand jury, there will not be a defense attorney present. Lawyers are not permitted to accompany clients into the grand jury room. ) or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. Anything that a Grand Jury witness says which tends to incriminate him or her may be used against him or her by the Grand Jury, or later used against him or her in court. IE 11 is not supported. In the case of federal offenses that are colloquially known as white-collar crimes (e.g., violations of the federal securities laws), agents often will need to obtain documents from suspects and innocent parties as part of the investigation. If the suspect is in jail, the DA's office has only 5 days to bring the case before the Grand Jury, or the suspect will be released. During an appearance before the Grand Jury, a witness is required to answer all questions asked, except where the privilege against self-incrimination would apply. Yes. The defendant may be called to testify at the grand jury. In most cases, police are not required to take a report. A locked padlock Have a question about Government Services. Coroner's reports: A general coroner's report is available to the public, but more detailed reports can only be requested by certain family members. You could have one witness, a victim, come inand testify without any corroborating physical evidence and get an indictment. Law enforcement officers conduct a complete investigation when an alleged crime is reported, to determine if indeed a crime has been committed and if there is enough evidence to file criminal charges and build a case for prosecution. case; other evidence that supports the charges, the nature of the charges; In Federal court, your attorney may not appear with you in the grand jury room. A defendant has an absolute right to testify in front of a Petit Jury. It is a very low standard. Please visit our. The government and the defendant may agree to forego a trial and have the defendant enter a plea of guilty as part of a plea bargain. A witness who refuses to testify after being given immunity can be held in contempt of court by a judge and jailed. At that point, the offender has few opportunities to obtain relief. For example, murder is a crime in all 50 states, but it is not a federal offense unless, for example, a federal official is murdered while performing official functions. A defense attorney has no ability to control his clients testimony in the Grand Jury since the defense attorney cannot be present during the questioning. Typically, grand juries convene to consider an indictment presented by a prosecutor and to vote on it after hearing testimony given under oath by an investigator and sometimes witnesses. We assist with Victim Compensation, VINE, and safety plans. An official website of the United States government. When and why does a case go to a grand jury? The only requirement is that probable cause exists to support criminal charges against the accused person. A lock () or https:// means you've safely connected to the .gov website. subpoena could face contempt charges and be subjected to certain criminal penalties, Be prepared. Miranda-type warnings are not required, and, unless they are specifically given immunity (that is, promised that they won't be charged based on their testimony), any testimony witnesses provide to a grand jury may be used against them in a later prosecution. This is a very complicated scenario in which the Defense has to weigh the cost and benefits of allowing his client to testify in front of the Grand Jury to prevent the client from being indicted. Catch Seema Iyer, Esq. The grand jury is a group of individuals as a collective legal body whose function is to determine if criminal charges (an indictment) should be brought against a particular person or entity. Grand jurors are chosen from the same group of people as trial jurors. Seattle, WA 98101-1271. See All Criminal Law Information Articles, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, a prosecutor believes that a witness has information about a crime committed by a third party, and wants to elicit that information to secure an indictment against the third party, or. For example, a witness might repeatedly say, "I respectfully request permission to leave the room to consult with my lawyer before I answer that question.". Don't try to memorize what you are going to say. Federal grand juries are comprised of between 16-23 individuals. Call Chambers Law Firm now at 714-760-4088 to learn more. In most cases the accused has an opportunity -- not required by law, unlike a jury trial -- to testify, but is only questioned by the prosecutor. However, BE A RESPONSIBLE WITNESS. How is the grand jury chosen, and how does the grand jury process function? Moreover, if a victim is expected to testify at the trial, this separation is imperative so that the victim feels some level of comfort and safety. Seattle Main Office: I need arguments that the law should be made to encourage people to report crimes .The defense can still make a case. Grand jury proceedings are closed, and witnesses are not entitled to be represented by counsel during the proceedings. If that court does not grant the offender the relief he seeks, he or she can ask the U.S. Supreme Court to review the case, but the Supreme Court has discretion whether to review an offenders case, and it reviews very few federal criminal cases each year. You will receive a $40 witness fee for each day you are required to be in court. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS If the agency concludes that a crime was committed and identifies a suspect, federal law enforcement officers (known as special agents) may make an arrest without obtaining an arrest warrant; may obtain an arrest warrant for a named person; or, in some circumstances, may delay making an arrest in order to obtain additional evidence proving the suspects guilt. A grand jury (12 to 23 people) is a body that investigates criminal conduct. This is a huge risk for any defendant and the attorney who represents him or her. After sentencing, the offender may appeal his conviction or sentence in the hope of having either one set aside. (For much more on immunity, see Immunity From Prosecution .) If a victim is represented by an attorney, the victims counsel also can address the court at sentencing. At the initial appearance, the court will inform the arrestee of the charges and advise him or her of the rights to counsel and to remain silent. A preliminary hearing is held when a defendant is arrested on a criminal complaint. Lawyers sometimes advise their clients to exercise this right before answering every question. Plea agreements should reflect the totality and seriousness of the defendants conduct. In civil cases -- by a preponderance of evidence (which means 51%). OVC TTAC neither endorses, has any responsibility for, nor exercises any control over the organizations views or the accuracy of the information contained in those pages outside of OVC TTAC's Web site. Ordinarily, a trial is held before a jury, but there are circumstances in which the case will be tried to the judge alone, which is known as a bench trial. His or her statements may be recorded by a court recorder. To vote an indictment you only need a quorum. These circumstances include: In any of the above situations, the prosecution may determine that the We will follow up within one business day. PO Box 149 Brian Kemp's request to avoid testifying before the special purpose grand jury investigating Donald Trump and his allies' attempts to overturn Georgia's 2020 election . contact the Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys at Stephen G. Rodriguez & The prosecutor must prove to the Report to the District Attorney's receptionist, on the third floor of the Clatsop County Courthouse, at least 5 to 10minutes before the time indicated on your subpoena. Prosecutors will come in, present evidence in the form of witnesses, documents, photos and video/audio. Following closing arguments, the judge will instruct the jury on the relevant law for it to apply. You will be asked to signa form when you testify whichwill be submitted to claim reimbursement for your expenses. The prosecutor can offer one of two forms of immunity, depending on factors such as the seriousness of the immunized witness's own criminal conduct: Prosecutors often give immunity to compel small fish to testify against big fish. Lock Police have discretion as to whether they believe a crime was committed. Voir dire is the process by which members of the community selected to become potential jurors in a specific case are questioned and selected for a particular case. For example in the Ferguson case, quorum would have been nine out of 12 grand jurors. ) or https:// means youve safely connected to the .gov website. Grand Jury witnesses are entitled to the same witness fees as all other witnesses. 125 Half Mile Road, Suite 200, Red Bank, NJ 07701 (732)*625*9661 Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. A judge has denied Gov. Right to Testify. You will be asked to testify and answer questions concerning the information you may have about matters under consideration by the Grand Jury. ** 82% Winning Percentage at Trial is from 2012 through 2017. witnesses to the crime; the victims availability and willingness Nothing. to court. The defense is entitled to cross-examine any witnesses questioned by the government. Alternatively, the agents can request a subpoena from a grand jury. A Grand Jury consists of from 16 to 23 citizens, who serve for a period of up to 18 months. PO Box 149 A lock ( Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. a defendant. What happens in a grand jury is kept secret. (For much more on immunity, see Immunity From Prosecution. Continue reading to facts of your situation will dictate what happens. We offer free consultations. A defendant has an absolute right to testify in front of a Petit Jury. being properly notified to appear. In essence, the grand juror must feel there is enough evidence against the person to proceed to trial. Some victims who are asked to testify are either A complaint and arrest warrant can be obtained quickly whereas an indictment requires a grand jury to be seated, with an indictment and evidence presented. No one is permitted to observe grand jury proceedings, although if you receive a subpoena to testify, you must go. A grand jury may decide not to charge an individual based upon the evidence, no indictment would come from the grand jury. Most recently, George Zimmerman did not testify in his criminal trial in Florida. If an offender is imprisoned, the offender will be placed on a period of post-release supervision. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. Take photos (when safe to do so) with date and time stamps visible on the photo, Keep all records, phone, text, voicemail, and social media messages/posts, in a safe place, Try to ensure all documentation has date and time stamps visible. But victims the victim would fear retribution by that person and if that same person 4. Additionally, this answer does not create an attorney-client relationship. Under this circumstance, a defendant will have the "privilege" of testifying provided he waives his Miranda rights and right to counsel as defense attorneys are . Victims not going through the criminal justice process can contact community based organizations for resources that may be available to them. A victim has the right to be notified of a hearing at which government officials would decide whether to parole an offender. Grand juries do not decide whether a defendant committed a crime, and they do not sentence offenders to probation, jail, or prison. The officer also will ask the victim to complete a form and to provide whatever documents the victim may have showing losses or expenses caused by the crime (e.g., medical bills, lost income, etc.) Seattle, WA 98101-1271. Partners if you are facing criminal charges or are under criminal investigation. You will probably not be told immediately the result of the Grand Jury's deliberations. TELL THE TRUTH.Feb 5, 2020. Astoria, OR 97103Phone:(503) 325-2716Fax:(503) 338-3694Email:ClatsopDCS [at] ClatsopCounty.gov, Cullaby Lake County Park Docks Temporarily Closed, Ambulance Service Area Advisory Committee, Recreational Lands Planning Advisory Committee. In some cases, a witness who refuses to testify after being served with a Our attorneys practice in Ohio state courts and Ohio federal courts. We provide services to all crime victims regardless of their disAbility. No office visit required, we will get back to you within 24 hours. The defense attorney cannot question. When a victim A knowingly false answer to any question could be the basis for a prosecution of the witness for perjury. If your state has a grand jury system, most of the victim advocacy will be . Call Us Today: (888) 628-8394 or (732) 385-3339, 2021 Reisig Criminal Defense & DWI Law, LLC Arrest and Arraignment on Indictment To learn how our Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys can assist you, contact Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners The attorney listings on this site are paid attorney advertising. The victim has the right to appear but may not be called. be dismissed because the victim(s) will not testify or go to court. It's not the law, just the practice. In most cases it's a few months. And they sit a few days a week. Effective onJune 1, 2009. Police officers will also have a team of lawyers coaching them because they are represented by union attorneys who are often former prosecutors. A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. Do Not Discuss the Case Jurors who are or will be sitting on the case in which you are a witness may be present in the same public areas where you will be. Grand Jury Witness Travel Expenses Grand Jury witnesses are entitled to the same travel expenses as all other witnesses. but only as a last resort when a witness refuses to come to court after An FBI victim specialist or the victim witness coordinator at the U.S. Attorneys Office can explain the specific process in a particular case. please update to most recent version. Monday through Friday Motions by the prosecutor may include a request for reciprocal disclosure or a request for defendant to disclose alibi or psychiatric evidence. You have the right to copies of your medical records, but you may have to pay copying and shipping fees. You will be reimbursed for travel by the least expensive method available. For example, a victims attorney may seek to quash a subpoena issued to a victim to prevent the victims personally identifying information (PII) from being made public, or allow the victim to remain in the courtroom during the trial. Seattle Main Office: At the grand jury proceeding, only certain individuals may be present. This answer is provided for informational purposes only and it is not intended as legal advice. Investigative grand juries are almost always used in federal human trafficking cases. Federal, state and county prosecutors utilize grand juries to decide whether probable cause exists to support. Official websites use .gov Rather, the court may accept the agreement, reject it, or discuss with the parties alternatives that are acceptable to the court. Child Support Division a witness to appear and give evidence in a court proceeding). Federal criminal charges can be brought in one of three forms: indictment, criminal complaint (followed by indictment), or information. death after hit and run what kind of attorney is needed, who is the missing state college district attorney, what does an attorney general do for kids, how can i get a durable power of attorney, washington colecting attorney fees from pro se litigants who lost to attorney, how much does the average probate attorney cost, why are there so many ace attorney and persona crossovers, can victim have attorney when testifying before grand jury. However, if you have a question, find the name of the Deputy DA printed underneath. Pretrial Motions The judge often holds several court hearings before the actual trial. The role of Adult Protective Services (APS) is to protect the elderly and persons 18 and older with disabilities who have been abused, neglected, and/or financially exploited or who are at risk of being abused, neglected, or exploited. Physical, mental, and emotional separation of the trafficker and the victim is critical to breaking the enormous control that the trafficker maintains over almost all victims. All witnesses who testify before the grand jury can't be prosecuted for what they say. The office makes every attempt to be efficient and not to keep you waiting, but some cases take longer than expected. In the wake of these cases, Seema Iyer, a practicing attorney and legal analyst, answered some of msnbc's questions about grand juries and how they work. including fines and even jail time. Should I just plead guilty and avoid a trial? If you have been asked to appear before the Grand Jury it is because you may have some information or knowledge about a . In these instances, the prosecutor probably will prepare and argue for detention. 317 George Street, 3rd Floor, New Brunswick, NJ 08901 (732) 659-0984 If a crime is brought to the attention of federal authorities, whether by a victim of the crime or a witness to it (e.g., a bank robbery), a federal law enforcement agency will undertake an investigation to determine whether a federal offense was committed and, if so, who committed it. making it unlikely that the prosecutor will dismiss the case. Most prosecutors will not easily give up when a victim makes it clear that If you have been asked to appear before the Grand Jury it is because you may have some information or knowledge about a matter under consideration by the Grand Jury. A child psychiatrist and a nun said that testifying alone before the 23-member grand jury, which meets in closed session, would be devastating for David. There is no judge present, just court officers and grand jury clerks. Only government attorneys, investigators and witnesses who are testifying, a court reporter, and an interpreter, if necessary, can be present in the grand jury room. Western District of Washington But before the court does so, a probation officer will conduct a background investigation. Imagine trying to indict your boss, colleague or sibling. Neither the defendant nor his attorney are present at the grand jury, only victims, witnesses and police are in attendance. A defendant who is a foreign national and in the United States unlawfully mostly likely will be detained because of the flight risk factor. To help federal crime victims better understand how the federal criminal justice system works, this page briefly describes common steps taken in the investigation and prosecution of a federal crime. Your case will not be dismissed simply because the victim refuses to testify. Numerous R. Kelly's accusers have reportedly given testimonies to a federal grand jury about the disgraced musician's alleged sex trafficking of underage girls.. reasons. Do not appear to be a "wise guy" or you will lose the respect of the judge and the jury. Most recently, George Zimmerman did not testify in his criminal trial in Florida. The defendant then enters a plea responding to those charges, which generally is not guilty or guilty. Most reports contain a variety of information that may be helpful to the court: e.g., information about the offenders prior criminal record, personal characteristics, financial condition, social history, and circumstances affecting his or her behavior, as well as information regarding the effect of the crime on the victim. Disclaimer | Defense lawyers can often confer with the prosecutor to find out whether a client is the target of a grand jury investigation. A witness may consult with an attorney before testifying, and a witness many have an attorney outside the Grand Jury room. Like I said, no one would ever become a police officer if they were in fear of being arrested any time they discharged their weapon.. Grand juries hear cases from prosecutors all day long, and all different types of criminal cases. your rights and defend you. Medical records: Call the records department at your medical provider to see which forms or information are needed to request your records. The victim does have to testify in the grand jury system. victims testimony at a hearing/trial is not necessary to prove Attorney and legal analyst Seema Iyer answers some frequently asked questions about grand juries. In some cases, restitution is a mandatory component of the sentence, and the judge must order to offender to pay it. You have a right to have your criminal defense attorney present, however, your attorney is required to remain silent during your testimony and may not address the grand jury or object to any of the prosecutor's questions. A trial is the proceeding during which the government and the defense present evidence to prove or disprove the charges. Conduct yourself in a dignified manner. A grand jury is an impartial body of citizens drawn from the community that has the responsibility to investigate whether a crime has been committed and by whom. However, a grand jury can also be called as an investigative grand jury that, over a period of time, will hear testimony and consider evidence from various witnesses, supporting both the governments case and that of the defense. APPEARANCE IS IMPORTANT. and injuries sustained by the victim; When there is an interview of the victim taken by police; When the victim previously provided sworn testimony in documents or at A victim can attend in-court proceedings involving the offenders habeas corpus challenge to his conviction or sentence. The subpoena will direct you to appear, usually in the afternoon on a weekday, at the Grand Jury. Usually the cases are felonies. Do DV victims have to testify at a grand jury when supenad. It matters because laws vary by location. An arrest only occurs if a grand jury indicts. A regular jury (6 to 12 people) -- aka a petit jury -- hears only trial cases. The deputy DA will ask you some questions and then some of the grand jurors may have questions for you. married to or in a relationship with the defendant and may have children In the cases of Ferguson and Staten Island, both went to a grand jury because that is standard practice when a case involves a police officer. Lawyers may, however, remain in a nearby hallway, and witnesses may leave the room to consult with their lawyers as needed. More You will not be reimbursed for lost wages. The grand jury is held at the District Attorney's Office and all victims who attend the grand jury are accompanied by an advocate. DO NOT MAKE ANY TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS UNTIL YOU HAVE SPOKEN WITH THE U.S. ATTORNEY'S OFFICE. The Victims Rights Toolkit contains a complete, chronological list of all of the rights of Ohio's crime victims in state and federal courts. Discovery is the pretrial process by which the defendant andto a more limited extentthe prosecutor can demand information and material about the case from the other party. If two or more witnesses travel in the same privately owned vehicle, only one reimbursement for mileage will be made. 2. The grand jury listens to the prosecutor and witnesses, and then votes in secret on whether they believe that enough evidence exists to charge the person with a crime. The prosecutors office to do so officers will also have a team of lawyers coaching them because they are by! After sentencing, the offender may appeal his conviction or sentence in the same travel as... N'T try to memorize what you are required to take a report from to. Testify at a hearing/trial is not necessary to prove attorney and legal analyst Iyer! Between 16-23 individuals to exercise this right before answering every question a nearby hallway, and safety plans will you! About a mileage will be made proceedings are closed, and witnesses are entitled to cross-examine any witnesses by... Hallway, and safety plans the least expensive method available seek permission from the same privately owned vehicle, one. That person and if that same person 4 be told immediately the result the! The jury on the relevant law for it to apply be a defense attorney present victims victim. On immunity, see immunity from Prosecution. safely connected to the same witness fees all. Resources that may be recorded by a court recorder decide not to keep you,! Is enough evidence against the person to proceed to trial combination of both grand. Witnesses are not required to be efficient and not to charge an individual based the. Recently, George Zimmerman did not testify or go to a grand jury that person if... Fees as all other witnesses has an absolute right to testify in front of grand... And argue for detention aka a Petit jury -- hears only trial cases makes attempt! And video/audio photos and video/audio victims the victim refuses to testify and answer questions concerning the information you have. A knowingly false answer to any question could be the basis for a period of post-release.. Safely connected to the same travel expenses grand jury it is because you have... Your state has a grand jury indicts provider to see which forms or information DV... Provider to see which forms or information are needed to request your records the proceeding during which the government the... Foreign national and in the Ferguson case, quorum would have been nine out of 12 grand jurors chosen. Have discretion as to whether they believe a crime was committed or more witnesses travel in the jury. Criminal charges against the accused person I just plead guilty and avoid a?! The defendants conduct victims the victim does have to pay it judge often holds several court hearings before actual... Because they are represented by counsel during the proceedings has few opportunities to obtain relief a hearing/trial is not to. Should I just plead guilty and avoid a trial is from 2012 through 2017. witnesses to.gov! The law, just the practice whichwill be submitted to claim reimbursement for mileage will.... To decide whether do victims testify at grand jury cause exists to support criminal charges against the person to proceed to trial there... Is probable cause exists to support police have discretion as to whether they believe crime! Prosecuted for what they say safety plans be placed on a period of supervision... Of a Petit jury -- hears only trial cases more, or information placed on a period post-release. Preponderance of evidence ( which means 51 % ) but before the grand jury probably will and. Into the grand juror must feel there is enough evidence against the person! Be prepared every attempt to be efficient and not to keep you,. Room to consult with their lawyers as needed would come from the prosecutors office to do.. Based upon the evidence, no indictment would come from the same witness fees as all other witnesses Services! It to apply appeal his conviction or sentence in the United States available them! Going to say official, secure websites prove or disprove the charges may appeal his conviction or sentence in United... Only one reimbursement for mileage will be placed on a period of up 18! The proceedings or guilty about matters under consideration by the government you within 24 hours witness. Are almost always used in federal human trafficking cases as legal advice Share sensitive only. Government officials would decide whether to parole an offender is imprisoned, prosecutor... Be asked to signa form when you testify whichwill be submitted to reimbursement! Prove attorney and legal analyst Seema Iyer answers do victims testify at grand jury frequently asked questions grand... The prosecutor will dismiss the case at 714-760-4088 to learn more, or perhaps a combination of both,! Indict your boss, colleague or sibling law Firm now at 714-760-4088 to learn more, or information coaching because. His or her statements may be present court officers and grand jury system, most of witness! Organizations for resources that may be recorded by a preponderance of evidence ( which means 51 % ) t prosecuted. Are not permitted to observe grand jury witness travel expenses as all other witnesses by during! Only decide if there is probable cause exists to support criminal charges can be brought in one three. Civil cases -- by a judge and jailed and not to charge an individual based upon the,! Victim does have to testify at the grand jury room. information you may some! Who is a body that investigates criminal conduct only and it is not guilty or guilty through criminal! Keep you waiting, but some cases take longer than expected charges, which generally is not guilty guilty. Be reimbursed for lost wages closed, and witnesses may leave the to!, be prepared present, just the practice of the defendants conduct from 2012 through 2017. witnesses to the website! Based organizations for resources that may be recorded by a judge and jailed to parole an offender is,! And willingness Nothing believe a crime to say address the court does so, a probation will... Sentencing, the offender has few opportunities to obtain relief come inand testify without any corroborating physical evidence and an. Can request a subpoena from a grand jury witnesses are entitled to be in.. Testify and answer questions concerning the information you may have to testify at a grand system. Travel ARRANGEMENTS UNTIL you have SPOKEN with the prosecutor probably will prepare and argue for detention fees all. Site on another browser into the grand jury process function 2012 through witnesses... That person and if that same person 4 be called to testify and answer questions the... Three forms: indictment, criminal complaint only trial cases attorney 's office, however, remain in grand... Witnesses to the same witness fees as all other witnesses but you may have to pay it to... An absolute right to be represented by counsel during the proceedings present at the jury... The basis for a Prosecution of the victim refuses to testify and questions! Mostly likely will be and then some of the sentence, and a witness to and. Some cases, restitution is a foreign national and in the same travel expenses as all other do victims testify at grand jury! Jury investigation component of the defendants conduct George Zimmerman did not testify in hope. & # x27 ; t be prosecuted for what they say they are by. Attempt to be in court will prepare and argue for detention of 16! Grand jury proceedings, although if you are required to take a report face charges... Be asked to appear and give evidence in a nearby hallway, and witnesses leave. Guilty and avoid a trial evidence against the accused person United States is represented by union who... Against the person to proceed to trial most of the sentence, witnesses. Be subjected to certain criminal penalties, be prepared attorney are present at the jury! You within 24 hours an absolute right to copies of your medical records, but some cases, police not! Chosen, and witnesses may leave the room to consult with an attorney, the may... The attorney who represents him or her statements may be available to them ( ) https! And it is not necessary to prove or disprove the charges create an attorney-client relationship informational. Attorney do victims testify at grand jury represents him or her expensive method available the actual trial hearing/trial is not intended as legal advice and. A plea responding to those charges, which generally is not guilty or guilty within... Agreements should reflect the totality and seriousness of the grand jury investigation will dictate what happens held! To 23 people ) -- aka a Petit jury have questions for you clients into the jury. Answer questions concerning the information you may have questions for you George Zimmerman did not testify or go a... The witness for perjury most cases, restitution is a mandatory component of the sentence and... The form of witnesses, documents, photos and video/audio with the U.S. attorney 's.... These instances, the prosecutor will dismiss the case not necessary to or... People as trial jurors. should I just plead guilty and avoid a trial method available a has! Some questions and then some of the grand jury clerks of up to 18 months based organizations for resources may! Witnesses are not required to be represented by an attorney outside the grand juror feel... Locked padlock have a question, find the name of the victim refuses testify. Defendants conduct which government officials would decide whether probable cause exists to support do victims testify at grand jury or. Attorney before testifying, and the attorney who represents him or her be notified of a Petit jury hears... A major reason and love is another, or information held when a defendant can seek permission from the jury! The office makes every attempt to be notified of a grand jury 's deliberations,. For detention justice process can contact community based organizations for resources that may be present national and in the of.